The Civil Aviation Authority has extended a current no-fly zone over Northern Ireland plus Islay, Campbeltown, Ronaldsway, Lands End and the Isles of Scilly until 7.00 tomorrow (Thursday) due to another high density area of volcanic ash over the areas.

Today was blighted with flight cancellations over these areas, causing annoyance and distress to many travellers. These scenes could be repeated for rather a long time as long as the Icelandic volcano keeps erupting. Latest Met Office information suggests that for the current situation the cloud should move west overnight which will mean that plans to open airspace at 7.00 will go ahead.

The CAA said: “The situation remains changeable, so passengers expecting to travel today and tomorrow from airports in Scotland, Northern Ireland, the north of Engand, Wales and the West Country should contact their airlines to check whether their flight is operating.”

“Ash is likely to continue to disrupt UK air travel for the foreseeable future and our advice to passengers is to listen to updates and contact their airline before leaving home if they are concerned their travel plans may be affected. The CAA is continuing to lead international efforts to develop more detailed scientific understanding of the situation to minimise disruption without compromising passenger safety.”